How to Quiet a Fussy Baby

If you are like most parents, quieting an upset baby can be a long and heart-wrenching task. Some babies are just prone to be fussy because of extreme colic or other health-related issues. Other times, just a few simple, caring steps can help ease your baby and ease your mind.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• A Caring Adult
• Endurance and Stamina
• A Rocker
• Baby Necessities (i.e. bottles, pacifer, diapers)

1. First, rule out the WDH factor (W - Wet, D - Dirty, H- Hungry). Establish that none of those things are the reason for his or her mood. Even a small amount of wetness in a diaper can upset some babies.
2. Next, check to make sure there is no physical illness that is causing the fussiness. Check the baby’s temperature.
3. Make sure the baby is not suffering from excess gas or constipation, both of which can lead to abdominal pains. Burp the baby to see if some of the gas can be relieved.
4. See if the room temperature could play a part in his fussiness. Just like a grown-up, babies neither like to be too cold or too hot. Remove clothing if the baby is sweating; add socks or a warmer jumper if the baby seems too cold.
5. Lay the baby in his crib and try using a pacifier. Turn on one of the baby’s favorite mobiles or soothing toys. See if the baby can soothe him or herself.
6. If the baby is still unsettled or unhappy, work on the environment. Dim the lights and turn off any blaring TV or radio. Turn on a baby-friendly CD or mobile.
7. Sit in a rocker and hold the baby close to your chest. A baby likes to feel secure and not restless. Sing a lullaby and talk to him in a calm, soothing voice. If he wants to continue to cry softly or make other noises, let him know you’re there to listen and care about how he’s feeling.
8. If rocking does not do the trick, walk around the room with the baby. Pat the babies back as you walk, continuing to talk in soothing tones.

Tips & Warnings

• If a baby continues to cry or seem unsettled, call a pediatrician.
• Never give your child medications/home remedies without talking to a doctor first.